Exercise normal precautions in the Netherlands.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to the Netherlands:
A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
Two pages required for entry stamp
Not required for stays under 90 days
None
10,000 Euros or equivalent
10,000 Euros or equivalent
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) 70 310 2207
Note: All consular services are provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330
USCitizenServicesAms@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on The Netherlands for information on U.S. - Netherlands relations.
The Netherlands is a party to the Schengen Agreement. Visit the Embassy of the Netherlands website for the most current visa information.
Information on work, residency, and immigration requirements in the Netherlands can be found on the website of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service. For further information, contact: the Embassy of the Netherlands at 4200 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20008; one of the Dutch consulates in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, or Miami; or one of the various honorary Dutch consulates throughout the United States. Additional information is available on the Dutch Board of Tourism and Conventions website.
HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the Netherlands.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. U.S. citizens should be aware that attacks can take place without prior warning.
When visiting or living in the Netherlands, you should:
Demonstrations occur regularly. Large, public demonstrations take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations tend to take place on politically significant holidays and during international summits hosted in the country.
Crime: While the rate of violent crime in the Netherlands is low, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves and are active in and around train, tram, and metro stations in the city center; and aboard public transportation, especially to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts you, often by asking for directions, while the other moves in on your unguarded property. Use your hotel safe, and keep baggage locked or secured when you are away. Avoid leaving valuables in automobiles, especially electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, GPS devices, and mobile telephones. Never leave your personal items or baggage unattended.
Most retailers in the Netherlands only accept a “chip and pin” card and will not accept a standard U.S. credit card containing only a magnetic strip. ATM and credit card users are advised to keep an eye on their cards at all times. If you feel uncomfortable using your card for any reason, use cash. Contact your credit card provider for further guidance.
Scams: U.S. citizens overseas are frequently the victims of online financial scams. Funds lost in such scams are rarely recovered. Information on fraud schemes can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate’s website, the Department of State's international financial scams page, and the FBI pages for information. If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam based in the Netherlands, you may report it to Dutch law enforcement authorities through the following police website and through the Fraud Help Desk website.
Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if they are widely available, as you may be breaking U.S. and local law.
Victims of Crime: Report crimes or emergencies to the local police by dialing 112, or 0900-8844 for non-emergency cases. See above for contact information for the U.S. Embassy The Hague and U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund (CICF) of the Netherlands provides financial compensation, under specific circumstances, for victims of crime and for those who have suffered injuries as a result of such incidents. For more information, contact the Dutch Ministry of Justice at +(31) (0) 70 465 6767.
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website oncrimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Despite common misperceptions, marijuana and hashish are controlled substances in the Netherlands, and although not enforced in defined tourist areas, possession is a crime that can result in a fine. “Coffee shops” are havens for petty criminals who prey on tourists and other individuals under the influence of drugs. Persons who visit “coffee shops” have become victims of pickpocketing, identity theft, sexual assault, and other crimes. Visitors are cautioned against using such substances, as they are often counterfeit and can cause illness or death. It is illegal to take any controlled substance, such as marijuana, into or out of the Netherlands.
Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Netherlands. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Dutch law guarantees equality and the right to access for people with disabilities. Information about accessibility in and around Amsterdam for travelers with disabilities is available on Amsterdam’s main online portal for visitors and local residents. See I amsterdam link.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Good medical facilities are widely available.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
While vaccinations are not required for travel to the Netherlands, you can stay up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For further health information go to:
Road Conditions and Safety:
Traffic Laws:
Public Transportation: Rail is often a convenient alternative to driving, particularly in the areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where road congestion is frequent. Rail network information is available at http://www.ns.nl/en. It is relatively safe to travel by rail from city to city, compared to some other European countries.
Taxi service in the Netherlands is safe but expensive. Trams and buses are both convenient and economical, but are often frequented by pickpockets.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions.
Aviation Safety Oversight:
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Netherland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel:
Mariners planning travel to The Netherlands should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https:homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal select “broadcast warnings”.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) 70 310 2207
Note: All consular services are provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330
USCitizenServicesAms@state.gov
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to The Netherlands’s Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. The Netherlands did not object to the method of service in Article 10 of the Convention, and does permit service via postal channels. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention. See also The Netherlands’ response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from the Netherlands in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters. The Netherlands also advises that the Hague Evidence Convention has been extended to in Aruba. The Central Authority for The Netherlands for the Hague Evidence Convention designated to receive letters of request for the taking of evidence is the Ministry of Justice. See the Hague Evidence Convention Model Letters of Request for guidance on how to prepare a letter of request. Letters of Request should be prepared in duplicate. Letters of request are accepted in English, Dutch, German and French. Requests for compulsion of evidence under the Hague Evidence Convention are transmitted directly from the requesting court or person in the United States to The Netherlands Central Authority and do not require transmittal via diplomatic channels. See The Netherlands Declarations and Reservations on the Hague Evidence Convention. See also The Netherlands’ response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Evidence Convention.
Requests from The Netherlands to Obtain Evidence in the United States: The U.S. Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention is the Office of International Judicial Assistance, Civil Division, Department of Justice, 1100 L St., N.W., Room 11006, Washington, D.C. 20530.
Voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters is permitted regardless of the nationality of the witness and do not require prior permission of the Central Authority of The Netherlands for the Hague Evidence Convention. Depositions can be carried out in three ways:
(1) Before a district court judge, who poses written interrogatories to the witness on behalf of counsel; to arrange for the taking of a deposition before a district court judge, counsel should write to the president of the district court for the particular district in which the deposition is to be taken;
(2) Before a Dutch notaris (a quasi-judge with substantially more powers than those associated with a public notary), who also poses the questions on the attorney''s behalf; and
(3) Before a consular officer of the United States. While this option may be provided for at the request of both parties, or through a court order, due to other statutorily mandated consular responsibilities and limitations of resources, generally speaking, this is not a practical proposition and can be accomplished much more quickly by another method. State Department policy foresees that, with the consent of the parties, the consular officer will withdraw following administration of the oaths. Telephone depositions are permitted. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. embassy directly.
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. The Netherlands’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Convention will authenticate Dutch public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in The Netherlands, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) 70 310 2207
Note: All consular services are provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330
USCitizenServicesAms@state.gov
The Netherlands and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since September 01, 1990.
For information concerning travel to the Netherlands, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for the Netherlands.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including the Netherlands. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 1-202-485-6221
Website
The Dutch Central Authority (DCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry of Justice (MOJ). Upon receipt of a new Hague application, the MOJ will contact the taking parent to determine whether he or she wants to voluntarily return the child to the country of habitual residence. In cases where the applicant is not aware of the child’s location in the Netherlands, the MOJ attempts to find the child with the assistance of several authorities. The DCA can be reached at:
Ministry of Justice
Directie Justitieel Jeugdbeleid (Youth Policy Division)
Afdeling Juridische en Internationale Zaken (Department for Legal and International Affairs)
Postbus 20301
2500 EH THE HAGUE
Netherlands
Telephone number: +31 (70) 370 79 11
Fax number: +31 (70) 370 7900
Website
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in the Netherlands, the USCA encourages parents or legal guardians to review the eligibility criteria and instructions for completing the Hague application form located at the Department of State website and contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the Dutch Ministry of Justice, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the U.S. or the Dutch central authorities. Applicant parents may be responsible for additional costs, such as airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered and attorneys fees if the parent does not qualify for free legal assistance from the Dutch government.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in the Netherlands. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in the Netherlands. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
Left-behind parents are required to retain the services of private Dutch legal counsel to forward their Hague petition to the appropriate court. Family law matters require legal representation; however, the Netherlands has a legal system for providing subsidized legal aid to cover the costs of legal proceedings, including lawyer's fees. An applicant may qualify for such subsidized legal aid, depending on their income. More information on subsidized legal aid is available here. The applicant may complete the application form together with their future lawyer, who will be authorized to submit the form to the Legal Aid Board.
The U.S. Embassy in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, posts a list of attorneys, including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
Mediation may be available for both abduction and access cases. The DCA does not provide mediation services directly; however the DCA does provide referrals to private and non-governmental organizations that offer mediation services. Courts and notaries readily formalize agreements that are negotiated under the guidance of a mediator. Mediation costs vary according to the duration of the negotiations.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
The Netherlands is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Netherlands and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
The Netherlands is not considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. While legally possible, intercountry adoption of a Dutch orphan by foreigners is unlikely. Only one Dutch orphan has received a U.S. immigrant visa in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in extremely rare adoption cases from the Netherlands, including adoptions of Dutch children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in the Netherlands.
Adoption between the United States and the Netherlands is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from the Netherlands, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective adoptive parents, the Netherlands also has the following requirements for prospective adoptive parents:
Because the Netherlands is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, Dutch children must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that the Netherlands attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to the Dutch requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
To be eligible for adoption in the Netherlands, a child should be under six years old and the age difference between the future parent and the child should be no more than 40 years (certain exceptions apply to both conditions).
Adoption Authority of the Netherlands
The Ministry of Justice is responsible for adoptions:
Ministry of Justice
Directie Justitiele Jeugdbescherming
Centrale Autoriteit Internationale Adoptie
PO Box 20301, 2500 EH
Den Haag, The Netherlands
All contact with the Ministry should be made through the Foundation for Adoption Services (Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen) listed hereafter.
The Ministry is not, however, directly involved in the initial adoption procedures. To request an application for a "permit in principle" (Beginseltoestemming) to begin the adoption process, prospective adoptive parents should contact:
Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services)
Postbus 290,
3500 AG Utrecht
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 30 233 0340
Fax: +31 30 232 1777
Email: (messages via website below)
Website: www.adoptie.nl
Because the Netherlands is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from the Netherlands must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.
NOTE: If you filed your I-600a with the Netherlands before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Learn more.
After you choose an accredited adoption service provider, you apply to be found eligible to adopt (Form I-800A) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn how. Once the U.S. government determines that you are "eligible" and "suitable" to adopt, you or your agency will forward your information to the adoption authority in the Netherlands. The Dutch adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under the law of the Netherlands.
If both the United States and the Netherlands determine that you are eligible to adopt, and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the central adoption authority in the Netherlands may provide you with a referral for a child. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of the particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval to adopt that particular child (Form I-800). USCIS will determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be adopted and enter the United States. Learn how. After this, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application for to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify the Netherlands's adoption authority (Article 5 letter). For Convention country adoptions, prospective adoptive parent(s) may not proceed with the adoption or obtain custody for the purpose of adoption until this takes place.
Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
Remember: Before you adopt (or gain legal custody of) a child in the Netherlands, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of custody for the purposes of adoption in the Netherlands.
The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining legal custody) in the Netherlands generally includes the following:
ADOPTION APPLICATION AND ROLE OF ADOPTION AUTHORITY: Detailed and up-to-date information may be obtained from the Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services) at the address listed under Contact Information.
The Dutch adoption procedure is based on the Hague Intercountry Adoption Convention. Prospective adoptive parents register with the Foundation for Adoption Services. After a waiting period (currently 18-20 months), prospective adoptive parents complete six information sessions over three months. After the prospective parents complete these sessions, their file is transferred to Dutch Child Protective Services, which evaluates the applicants' physical and mental health and suitability and arranges for a home study involving various meetings with social workers over the course of two to three months. On the basis of the home study report, the Ministry of Justice determines whether a "permit in principle," valid for three years, will be issued, giving the prospective adoptive parents the authorization to begin the mediation process used to identify a well-suited parent-child match. Specific rules apply. The child should be under six years old and the age difference between the future parent and the child should be no more than 40 years (certain exceptions apply to both conditions).
ROLE OF ADOPTION AGENCIES: Prospective adoptive parents may visit: www. adoptie.nl for a list of licensed adoption agencies in the Netherlands. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in the Netherlands maintain a list of attorneys. This list is accessible at: http://amsterdam.usconsulate.gov/legal_assistance3.html
ADOPTION FEES: Compulsory preparation and information sessions cost € 900 per applicant. The Foundation for Adoption Services estimates that total costs for adoption procedures in the child's country of origin, depending on the country and the intermediary organization involved, amount to between € 7,500 and € 20,000. Additional costs in the Netherlands include € 1,000 to have a contact screened by one of the mediating organizations in cases of self-established contacts; € 331 for the child's permit to stay in the Netherlands; € 600 for the Dutch adoption declaration.
Note: As of the date of this flyer, the exchange rate is one Euro to $1.32 U.S. dollars.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: For detailed information please see http://www.adoptie.nl/m/adoptieprocedure_procedurestapvoorstap/mn/3/
NOTE: Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how.
Bring Your Child Home Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
Birth Certificate
You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
For how to obtain a new birth certificate for the child in the Netherlands please see www.overheid.nl and select the municipality (city hall) concerned. For the U.S. please see http://www.netherlands-embassy.org/article.asp?articleref=AR00000131EN
Netherlands Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or Passport from The Netherlands.
For how to obtain a Passport for the child in the Netherlands please see www.overheid.nl and select the municipality [city hall] concerned]. For the U.S. please see http://www.netherlands-embassy.org/listing.asp?categoryvalue=dcpassport
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
Note: The U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands does not issue Immigrant Visas. All Immigrant Visas for the Netherlands are issued by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam (see Contact Information).
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions to be finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final adoption decree. We urge your family to finalize the adoption in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave the Netherlands. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for the Netherlands, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Staying Safe on Your Trip
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in the Netherlands, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What does the Netherlands require of the adoptive parents after the adoption?
Within five days after arrival in The Netherlands, the parents need to register the child with the Civil Registry [ Burgerzaken] in the municipality where the parents reside. Further information can be obtained from the Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services) at the address listed under Contact Information.
We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of the Netherlands and complete all post-adoption requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption agency may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country's history of positive experiences with American parents.
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam
Immigrant Visa Unit
Attention: Adoption Issues
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Tel: (31) 20 575 5331
Fax:(31) 20 679 0321 (address to Immigrant Visa Services)
E-mail: ImmigrantVisasAms@state.gov
Telephone: +358-9-616-25730
Adoption Authority of the Netherlands
The Ministry of Justice is responsible for adoptions:
Ministry of Justice
Directie Justitiele Jeugdbescherming
Centrale Autoriteit Internationale Adoptie
PO Box 20301, 2500 EH
Den Haag, The Netherlands
All contact with the Ministry should be made through the Foundation for Adoption Services (Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen) listed hereafter.
The Ministry is not, however, directly involved in the initial adoption procedures. To request an application for a "permit in principle" (Beginseltoestemming) to begin the adoption process, prospective adoptive parents should contact:
Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services)
Postbus 290,
3500 AG Utrecht
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 30 233 0340
Fax: +31 30 232 1777
Email: (messages via website below)
Website: www.adoptie.nl
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
4200 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20016-2138
Tel: (202) 244-5300
Fax: (202) 362-3430
Email: was@minbuza.nl (email)
Website: www.the-netherlands.org
The Netherlands also has Consulates-General in Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and New York.
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
Internet: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-6 10 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO-7 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
There are no general documents
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Uittreksel uit de geboorteakte, Dienst van de burgerlijke stand
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry Office of the city/town where the birth was registered
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall /municipality place of birth
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Available in standard Dutch language and international versions.
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Uittreksel uit de overlijdensakte, Dienst van de burgerlijke stand
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry Office where the death was registered
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall /municipality place of death
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Available in standard Dutch language and international versions
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Afschrift van een huwelijksakte, Dienst Publiek Zaken, Burgelijke Stand
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry Office where the marriage was registered.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall/municipality place of marriage
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: Marriage booklet
Exceptions: None
Comments: Available for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples (same-sex marriage was legalized in the Netherlands on April 1, 2001). Dutch law only acknowledges civil marriages, performed by a registrar of marriages (ambtenaar van de burgerlijke stand) Available in standard Dutch language and international versions
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Uittreksel uit de huwelijksakte, Dienst van de burgerlijke stand
Issuing Authority: The Civil Registry Office where the divorce was registered.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall/municipality place of marriage
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: If the original marriage was not performed in The Netherlands, the divorce certificate is available in Dutch only. The international version of Dutch divorce decree is actually the marriage cert with a note on the lower half saying, “DIV” and the date of divorce.
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands Document Name: Adoptieakte / Adoption Decree
Issuing Authority: Civil registrar’s office/ for domestic adoption court clerk
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Documents differ, white paper, seal from court where the adoption was registered
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Court clerk/ civil servant officer
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: There is no procedure for obtaining
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: If one wishes to register the adopted child at the civil registrar’s office of the municipality in order to obtain a birth and adoption decree contact Afdeling Landelijke Taken van Publiekszaken per email lt@denhaag.nl. Complete court documents show completion of adoption process.
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Identiteitskaart
Issuing Authority: Koninkrijk der Nederlanden, Kingdom of the Netherlands
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: pink and blue
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Go to gemeente (local city hall) to apply for ID card
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Yes, €41.35 as of 2017
Document Name: Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (VOG)/Certificate of Good Conduct
Issuing Authority: The Centraal Orgaan Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (COVOG), an office within the Dutch Ministry of Justice.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Seal : silver hologram bottom right; color: medium bluish-gray color; Format : A4 paper; Short English summary translation at the end of the page
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Department Manager, COVOG
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: In order to apply, you should visit the Ministry's website and download the application form. Please note all applicants will need to submit:
Applicants residing in the Netherlands: You will need to submit your application to the local municipality where you are registered. If you reside outside of the Netherlands and are not registered with a local municipality in the Netherlands, please send your application directly to COVOG at the below address:
Ministerie van Veiligheid en Justitie
Dienst Justis, Postbus 20300, 2500 EH Den Haag,
Nederland/The Netherlands
You must additionally provide:
Payment may be made only by transfer to the Dutch bank account number: 56.99.90.9719 (RBS) in the name COVOG. Money transfers, cash payment etc., are not accepted.
Applicants residing outside of the Netherlands: You will need to pay via international bank transfer via the below information for the Royal Bank of Scotland account: IBAN Code: NL47RBOS0569990971 BIC (swift code): RBOSNL2A Royal Bank of Scotland in Amsterdam
Authorizing someone to apply on your behalf: You are able to authorize a relative or friend who is in the Netherlands to apply for the VOG on your behalf. If you choose to do this, applications must be accompanied by an authorization or both the applicant and the person acting on your behalf must sign the application form. For the latest information visit the website. For any specific questions, please refer to Frontdesk.justis@minvenj.nl or call the customer contact center on 31(0)88 998 22 00.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available: In rare cases documents may not be available, as they may have been expunged or statute of limitation applies.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Comments: To obtain conviction or arrest records, convicted person must go to the court where they were convicted to request an aantekening mondeling vonnis. If the person appeared before a multiple judge court, they must get an extract vonnis. Documents are issued in Dutch. Person must insist that they require a copy of this document.
Unavailable
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: Dienstplichtverklaring
Issuing Authority: Dienstencentrum Human Resources (DC HR
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: there is no special seal(s)/color /format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants who served in the Dutch Army can write to: Dienstencentrum Human Resources (DC HR) mention “aanvraag dienstplichtverklaring”
Postbus 90090
3509 AB Utrecht
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.):
Fees: Fees differ per municipality and by administration district
Document Name: Passport
Issuing Government Authority: City Hall /municipality city of residence
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bordeaux-red, hard cover booklet; Refugee travel document hard cover, color grey; Travel document for foreigners, color green
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The mayor city of issuance
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Registered in the municipality of residence
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Other Documents Available: Emergency passport and laissez-passer
Not applicable
Post Title: U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam, Netherlands
DPO Mailing Address:
Unit 5780
DPO, AE 09715
Street and Mailing Address:
Museumplein 19, 1071 DJ
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Phone Number: (31) (20) 575-5309 OR (31) (70) 310-2209 - after hours emergencies
Visa Services: All visa categories for all of the Netherlands.
Comments / Additional Information: None
All visa categories for all of the Netherlands.
Washington, DC (202) 244-5300 (202) 362-3430
Chicago, IL (312) 780-1314 (312) 856-9218
Miami, FL (786) 866-0480 (786) 866-0498
New York, NY (646) 557-2200 (212) 246-9679
San Francisco, CA (415) 291-2033 (415) 291-2049
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
Two pages required for entry stamp
Not required for stays under 90 days
None
10,000 Euros or equivalent
10,000 Euros or equivalent
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) 70 310 2207
Note: All consular services are provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330
USCitizenServicesAms@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on The Netherlands for information on U.S. - Netherlands relations.
The Netherlands is a party to the Schengen Agreement. Visit the Embassy of the Netherlands website for the most current visa information.
Information on work, residency, and immigration requirements in the Netherlands can be found on the website of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service. For further information, contact: the Embassy of the Netherlands at 4200 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20008; one of the Dutch consulates in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, or Miami; or one of the various honorary Dutch consulates throughout the United States. Additional information is available on the Dutch Board of Tourism and Conventions website.
HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the Netherlands.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. U.S. citizens should be aware that attacks can take place without prior warning.
When visiting or living in the Netherlands, you should:
Demonstrations occur regularly. Large, public demonstrations take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations tend to take place on politically significant holidays and during international summits hosted in the country.
Crime: While the rate of violent crime in the Netherlands is low, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves and are active in and around train, tram, and metro stations in the city center; and aboard public transportation, especially to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts you, often by asking for directions, while the other moves in on your unguarded property. Use your hotel safe, and keep baggage locked or secured when you are away. Avoid leaving valuables in automobiles, especially electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, GPS devices, and mobile telephones. Never leave your personal items or baggage unattended.
Most retailers in the Netherlands only accept a “chip and pin” card and will not accept a standard U.S. credit card containing only a magnetic strip. ATM and credit card users are advised to keep an eye on their cards at all times. If you feel uncomfortable using your card for any reason, use cash. Contact your credit card provider for further guidance.
Scams: U.S. citizens overseas are frequently the victims of online financial scams. Funds lost in such scams are rarely recovered. Information on fraud schemes can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate’s website, the Department of State's international financial scams page, and the FBI pages for information. If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam based in the Netherlands, you may report it to Dutch law enforcement authorities through the following police website and through the Fraud Help Desk website.
Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if they are widely available, as you may be breaking U.S. and local law.
Victims of Crime: Report crimes or emergencies to the local police by dialing 112, or 0900-8844 for non-emergency cases. See above for contact information for the U.S. Embassy The Hague and U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund (CICF) of the Netherlands provides financial compensation, under specific circumstances, for victims of crime and for those who have suffered injuries as a result of such incidents. For more information, contact the Dutch Ministry of Justice at +(31) (0) 70 465 6767.
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website oncrimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Despite common misperceptions, marijuana and hashish are controlled substances in the Netherlands, and although not enforced in defined tourist areas, possession is a crime that can result in a fine. “Coffee shops” are havens for petty criminals who prey on tourists and other individuals under the influence of drugs. Persons who visit “coffee shops” have become victims of pickpocketing, identity theft, sexual assault, and other crimes. Visitors are cautioned against using such substances, as they are often counterfeit and can cause illness or death. It is illegal to take any controlled substance, such as marijuana, into or out of the Netherlands.
Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Netherlands. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Dutch law guarantees equality and the right to access for people with disabilities. Information about accessibility in and around Amsterdam for travelers with disabilities is available on Amsterdam’s main online portal for visitors and local residents. See I amsterdam link.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Good medical facilities are widely available.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
While vaccinations are not required for travel to the Netherlands, you can stay up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For further health information go to:
Road Conditions and Safety:
Traffic Laws:
Public Transportation: Rail is often a convenient alternative to driving, particularly in the areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where road congestion is frequent. Rail network information is available at http://www.ns.nl/en. It is relatively safe to travel by rail from city to city, compared to some other European countries.
Taxi service in the Netherlands is safe but expensive. Trams and buses are both convenient and economical, but are often frequented by pickpockets.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions.
Aviation Safety Oversight:
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Netherland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel:
Mariners planning travel to The Netherlands should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https:homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal select “broadcast warnings”.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) 70 310 2207
Note: All consular services are provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330
USCitizenServicesAms@state.gov
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to The Netherlands’s Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. The Netherlands did not object to the method of service in Article 10 of the Convention, and does permit service via postal channels. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention. See also The Netherlands’ response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from the Netherlands in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters. The Netherlands also advises that the Hague Evidence Convention has been extended to in Aruba. The Central Authority for The Netherlands for the Hague Evidence Convention designated to receive letters of request for the taking of evidence is the Ministry of Justice. See the Hague Evidence Convention Model Letters of Request for guidance on how to prepare a letter of request. Letters of Request should be prepared in duplicate. Letters of request are accepted in English, Dutch, German and French. Requests for compulsion of evidence under the Hague Evidence Convention are transmitted directly from the requesting court or person in the United States to The Netherlands Central Authority and do not require transmittal via diplomatic channels. See The Netherlands Declarations and Reservations on the Hague Evidence Convention. See also The Netherlands’ response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Evidence Convention.
Requests from The Netherlands to Obtain Evidence in the United States: The U.S. Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention is the Office of International Judicial Assistance, Civil Division, Department of Justice, 1100 L St., N.W., Room 11006, Washington, D.C. 20530.
Voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters is permitted regardless of the nationality of the witness and do not require prior permission of the Central Authority of The Netherlands for the Hague Evidence Convention. Depositions can be carried out in three ways:
(1) Before a district court judge, who poses written interrogatories to the witness on behalf of counsel; to arrange for the taking of a deposition before a district court judge, counsel should write to the president of the district court for the particular district in which the deposition is to be taken;
(2) Before a Dutch notaris (a quasi-judge with substantially more powers than those associated with a public notary), who also poses the questions on the attorney''s behalf; and
(3) Before a consular officer of the United States. While this option may be provided for at the request of both parties, or through a court order, due to other statutorily mandated consular responsibilities and limitations of resources, generally speaking, this is not a practical proposition and can be accomplished much more quickly by another method. State Department policy foresees that, with the consent of the parties, the consular officer will withdraw following administration of the oaths. Telephone depositions are permitted. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. embassy directly.
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. The Netherlands’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Convention will authenticate Dutch public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in The Netherlands, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) 70 310 2207
Note: All consular services are provided by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.
U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330
USCitizenServicesAms@state.gov
The Netherlands and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since September 01, 1990.
For information concerning travel to the Netherlands, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for the Netherlands.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including the Netherlands. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 1-202-485-6221
Website
The Dutch Central Authority (DCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry of Justice (MOJ). Upon receipt of a new Hague application, the MOJ will contact the taking parent to determine whether he or she wants to voluntarily return the child to the country of habitual residence. In cases where the applicant is not aware of the child’s location in the Netherlands, the MOJ attempts to find the child with the assistance of several authorities. The DCA can be reached at:
Ministry of Justice
Directie Justitieel Jeugdbeleid (Youth Policy Division)
Afdeling Juridische en Internationale Zaken (Department for Legal and International Affairs)
Postbus 20301
2500 EH THE HAGUE
Netherlands
Telephone number: +31 (70) 370 79 11
Fax number: +31 (70) 370 7900
Website
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in the Netherlands, the USCA encourages parents or legal guardians to review the eligibility criteria and instructions for completing the Hague application form located at the Department of State website and contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the Dutch Ministry of Justice, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the U.S. or the Dutch central authorities. Applicant parents may be responsible for additional costs, such as airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered and attorneys fees if the parent does not qualify for free legal assistance from the Dutch government.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in the Netherlands. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in the Netherlands. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
Left-behind parents are required to retain the services of private Dutch legal counsel to forward their Hague petition to the appropriate court. Family law matters require legal representation; however, the Netherlands has a legal system for providing subsidized legal aid to cover the costs of legal proceedings, including lawyer's fees. An applicant may qualify for such subsidized legal aid, depending on their income. More information on subsidized legal aid is available here. The applicant may complete the application form together with their future lawyer, who will be authorized to submit the form to the Legal Aid Board.
The U.S. Embassy in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, posts a list of attorneys, including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
Mediation may be available for both abduction and access cases. The DCA does not provide mediation services directly; however the DCA does provide referrals to private and non-governmental organizations that offer mediation services. Courts and notaries readily formalize agreements that are negotiated under the guidance of a mediator. Mediation costs vary according to the duration of the negotiations.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
The Netherlands is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Netherlands and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
The Netherlands is not considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. While legally possible, intercountry adoption of a Dutch orphan by foreigners is unlikely. Only one Dutch orphan has received a U.S. immigrant visa in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in extremely rare adoption cases from the Netherlands, including adoptions of Dutch children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in the Netherlands.
Adoption between the United States and the Netherlands is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from the Netherlands, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective adoptive parents, the Netherlands also has the following requirements for prospective adoptive parents:
Because the Netherlands is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, Dutch children must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that the Netherlands attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to the Dutch requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
To be eligible for adoption in the Netherlands, a child should be under six years old and the age difference between the future parent and the child should be no more than 40 years (certain exceptions apply to both conditions).
Adoption Authority of the Netherlands
The Ministry of Justice is responsible for adoptions:
Ministry of Justice
Directie Justitiele Jeugdbescherming
Centrale Autoriteit Internationale Adoptie
PO Box 20301, 2500 EH
Den Haag, The Netherlands
All contact with the Ministry should be made through the Foundation for Adoption Services (Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen) listed hereafter.
The Ministry is not, however, directly involved in the initial adoption procedures. To request an application for a "permit in principle" (Beginseltoestemming) to begin the adoption process, prospective adoptive parents should contact:
Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services)
Postbus 290,
3500 AG Utrecht
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 30 233 0340
Fax: +31 30 232 1777
Email: (messages via website below)
Website: www.adoptie.nl
Because the Netherlands is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from the Netherlands must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.
NOTE: If you filed your I-600a with the Netherlands before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Learn more.
After you choose an accredited adoption service provider, you apply to be found eligible to adopt (Form I-800A) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn how. Once the U.S. government determines that you are "eligible" and "suitable" to adopt, you or your agency will forward your information to the adoption authority in the Netherlands. The Dutch adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under the law of the Netherlands.
If both the United States and the Netherlands determine that you are eligible to adopt, and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the central adoption authority in the Netherlands may provide you with a referral for a child. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of the particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval to adopt that particular child (Form I-800). USCIS will determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be adopted and enter the United States. Learn how. After this, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application for to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify the Netherlands's adoption authority (Article 5 letter). For Convention country adoptions, prospective adoptive parent(s) may not proceed with the adoption or obtain custody for the purpose of adoption until this takes place.
Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
Remember: Before you adopt (or gain legal custody of) a child in the Netherlands, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of custody for the purposes of adoption in the Netherlands.
The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining legal custody) in the Netherlands generally includes the following:
ADOPTION APPLICATION AND ROLE OF ADOPTION AUTHORITY: Detailed and up-to-date information may be obtained from the Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services) at the address listed under Contact Information.
The Dutch adoption procedure is based on the Hague Intercountry Adoption Convention. Prospective adoptive parents register with the Foundation for Adoption Services. After a waiting period (currently 18-20 months), prospective adoptive parents complete six information sessions over three months. After the prospective parents complete these sessions, their file is transferred to Dutch Child Protective Services, which evaluates the applicants' physical and mental health and suitability and arranges for a home study involving various meetings with social workers over the course of two to three months. On the basis of the home study report, the Ministry of Justice determines whether a "permit in principle," valid for three years, will be issued, giving the prospective adoptive parents the authorization to begin the mediation process used to identify a well-suited parent-child match. Specific rules apply. The child should be under six years old and the age difference between the future parent and the child should be no more than 40 years (certain exceptions apply to both conditions).
ROLE OF ADOPTION AGENCIES: Prospective adoptive parents may visit: www. adoptie.nl for a list of licensed adoption agencies in the Netherlands. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in the Netherlands maintain a list of attorneys. This list is accessible at: http://amsterdam.usconsulate.gov/legal_assistance3.html
ADOPTION FEES: Compulsory preparation and information sessions cost € 900 per applicant. The Foundation for Adoption Services estimates that total costs for adoption procedures in the child's country of origin, depending on the country and the intermediary organization involved, amount to between € 7,500 and € 20,000. Additional costs in the Netherlands include € 1,000 to have a contact screened by one of the mediating organizations in cases of self-established contacts; € 331 for the child's permit to stay in the Netherlands; € 600 for the Dutch adoption declaration.
Note: As of the date of this flyer, the exchange rate is one Euro to $1.32 U.S. dollars.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: For detailed information please see http://www.adoptie.nl/m/adoptieprocedure_procedurestapvoorstap/mn/3/
NOTE: Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how.
Bring Your Child Home Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
Birth Certificate
You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
For how to obtain a new birth certificate for the child in the Netherlands please see www.overheid.nl and select the municipality (city hall) concerned. For the U.S. please see http://www.netherlands-embassy.org/article.asp?articleref=AR00000131EN
Netherlands Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or Passport from The Netherlands.
For how to obtain a Passport for the child in the Netherlands please see www.overheid.nl and select the municipality [city hall] concerned]. For the U.S. please see http://www.netherlands-embassy.org/listing.asp?categoryvalue=dcpassport
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
Note: The U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands does not issue Immigrant Visas. All Immigrant Visas for the Netherlands are issued by the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam (see Contact Information).
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions to be finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final adoption decree. We urge your family to finalize the adoption in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave the Netherlands. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for the Netherlands, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Staying Safe on Your Trip
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in the Netherlands, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What does the Netherlands require of the adoptive parents after the adoption?
Within five days after arrival in The Netherlands, the parents need to register the child with the Civil Registry [ Burgerzaken] in the municipality where the parents reside. Further information can be obtained from the Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services) at the address listed under Contact Information.
We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of the Netherlands and complete all post-adoption requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption agency may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country's history of positive experiences with American parents.
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam
Immigrant Visa Unit
Attention: Adoption Issues
Museumplein 19
1071 DJ Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Tel: (31) 20 575 5331
Fax:(31) 20 679 0321 (address to Immigrant Visa Services)
E-mail: ImmigrantVisasAms@state.gov
Telephone: +358-9-616-25730
Adoption Authority of the Netherlands
The Ministry of Justice is responsible for adoptions:
Ministry of Justice
Directie Justitiele Jeugdbescherming
Centrale Autoriteit Internationale Adoptie
PO Box 20301, 2500 EH
Den Haag, The Netherlands
All contact with the Ministry should be made through the Foundation for Adoption Services (Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen) listed hereafter.
The Ministry is not, however, directly involved in the initial adoption procedures. To request an application for a "permit in principle" (Beginseltoestemming) to begin the adoption process, prospective adoptive parents should contact:
Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen (Foundation for Adoption Services)
Postbus 290,
3500 AG Utrecht
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 30 233 0340
Fax: +31 30 232 1777
Email: (messages via website below)
Website: www.adoptie.nl
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
4200 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20016-2138
Tel: (202) 244-5300
Fax: (202) 362-3430
Email: was@minbuza.nl (email)
Website: www.the-netherlands.org
The Netherlands also has Consulates-General in Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and New York.
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
Internet: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-6 10 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO-7 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
There are no general documents
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Uittreksel uit de geboorteakte, Dienst van de burgerlijke stand
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry Office of the city/town where the birth was registered
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall /municipality place of birth
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Available in standard Dutch language and international versions.
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Uittreksel uit de overlijdensakte, Dienst van de burgerlijke stand
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry Office where the death was registered
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall /municipality place of death
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Available in standard Dutch language and international versions
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Afschrift van een huwelijksakte, Dienst Publiek Zaken, Burgelijke Stand
Issuing Authority: Civil Registry Office where the marriage was registered.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall/municipality place of marriage
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: Marriage booklet
Exceptions: None
Comments: Available for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples (same-sex marriage was legalized in the Netherlands on April 1, 2001). Dutch law only acknowledges civil marriages, performed by a registrar of marriages (ambtenaar van de burgerlijke stand) Available in standard Dutch language and international versions
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Uittreksel uit de huwelijksakte, Dienst van de burgerlijke stand
Issuing Authority: The Civil Registry Office where the divorce was registered.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Local registrar’s office official seal, white paper, different format depending on issuance date
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Civil servant officer at the registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Differs per municipality. Online; Personal appearance; Submit written request to the City Hall/municipality place of marriage
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: If the original marriage was not performed in The Netherlands, the divorce certificate is available in Dutch only. The international version of Dutch divorce decree is actually the marriage cert with a note on the lower half saying, “DIV” and the date of divorce.
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands Document Name: Adoptieakte / Adoption Decree
Issuing Authority: Civil registrar’s office/ for domestic adoption court clerk
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Documents differ, white paper, seal from court where the adoption was registered
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Court clerk/ civil servant officer
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: There is no procedure for obtaining
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: If one wishes to register the adopted child at the civil registrar’s office of the municipality in order to obtain a birth and adoption decree contact Afdeling Landelijke Taken van Publiekszaken per email lt@denhaag.nl. Complete court documents show completion of adoption process.
Available
Fees: Vary depending or administrative district municipality/ City Hall within the Netherlands
Document Name: Identiteitskaart
Issuing Authority: Koninkrijk der Nederlanden, Kingdom of the Netherlands
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: pink and blue
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar’s office
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Go to gemeente (local city hall) to apply for ID card
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Yes, €41.35 as of 2017
Document Name: Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (VOG)/Certificate of Good Conduct
Issuing Authority: The Centraal Orgaan Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (COVOG), an office within the Dutch Ministry of Justice.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Seal : silver hologram bottom right; color: medium bluish-gray color; Format : A4 paper; Short English summary translation at the end of the page
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Department Manager, COVOG
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: In order to apply, you should visit the Ministry's website and download the application form. Please note all applicants will need to submit:
Applicants residing in the Netherlands: You will need to submit your application to the local municipality where you are registered. If you reside outside of the Netherlands and are not registered with a local municipality in the Netherlands, please send your application directly to COVOG at the below address:
Ministerie van Veiligheid en Justitie
Dienst Justis, Postbus 20300, 2500 EH Den Haag,
Nederland/The Netherlands
You must additionally provide:
Payment may be made only by transfer to the Dutch bank account number: 56.99.90.9719 (RBS) in the name COVOG. Money transfers, cash payment etc., are not accepted.
Applicants residing outside of the Netherlands: You will need to pay via international bank transfer via the below information for the Royal Bank of Scotland account: IBAN Code: NL47RBOS0569990971 BIC (swift code): RBOSNL2A Royal Bank of Scotland in Amsterdam
Authorizing someone to apply on your behalf: You are able to authorize a relative or friend who is in the Netherlands to apply for the VOG on your behalf. If you choose to do this, applications must be accompanied by an authorization or both the applicant and the person acting on your behalf must sign the application form. For the latest information visit the website. For any specific questions, please refer to Frontdesk.justis@minvenj.nl or call the customer contact center on 31(0)88 998 22 00.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available: In rare cases documents may not be available, as they may have been expunged or statute of limitation applies.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Comments: To obtain conviction or arrest records, convicted person must go to the court where they were convicted to request an aantekening mondeling vonnis. If the person appeared before a multiple judge court, they must get an extract vonnis. Documents are issued in Dutch. Person must insist that they require a copy of this document.
Unavailable
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: Dienstplichtverklaring
Issuing Authority: Dienstencentrum Human Resources (DC HR
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: there is no special seal(s)/color /format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants who served in the Dutch Army can write to: Dienstencentrum Human Resources (DC HR) mention “aanvraag dienstplichtverklaring”
Postbus 90090
3509 AB Utrecht
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.):
Fees: Fees differ per municipality and by administration district
Document Name: Passport
Issuing Government Authority: City Hall /municipality city of residence
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bordeaux-red, hard cover booklet; Refugee travel document hard cover, color grey; Travel document for foreigners, color green
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The mayor city of issuance
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Registered in the municipality of residence
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Other Documents Available: Emergency passport and laissez-passer
Not applicable
Post Title: U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam, Netherlands
DPO Mailing Address:
Unit 5780
DPO, AE 09715
Street and Mailing Address:
Museumplein 19, 1071 DJ
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Phone Number: (31) (20) 575-5309 OR (31) (70) 310-2209 - after hours emergencies
Visa Services: All visa categories for all of the Netherlands.
Comments / Additional Information: None
All visa categories for all of the Netherlands.
Washington, DC (202) 244-5300 (202) 362-3430
Chicago, IL (312) 780-1314 (312) 856-9218
Miami, FL (786) 866-0480 (786) 866-0498
New York, NY (646) 557-2200 (212) 246-9679
San Francisco, CA (415) 291-2033 (415) 291-2049
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.
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